The score in this film was particularly unique. Many moments were accompanied by long, droning sounds of orchestral instruments, building and building in power. The interesting thing is that many times, the score didn't amount to anything. It just continued and stopped after a while, nothing really happened on screen to bring it to a climax. This isn't common in most films. The music usually accompanies the picture, augmenting the mood, establishing a feeling. In this one, however, this wasn't always the case. While the music would sound sinister and overpowering, the action on screen may not completely agree. This might be because the music at these times reflects something internal that one of the characters is feeling. It's not always so straightforward.
Monday, March 10, 2014
Yea, there was some blood. No metaphors here.
I applaud that ending. The writers managed to mash together a moment of sick comedy and gruesomeness, tying the entire film together with an excellent ending frame and inappropriate yet very appropriate score. In a bowling alley. Well done. Even before that there's the scene in which Daniel destroys Eli with his words, belittling him to the greatest extent he could. The director did it in very few different kinds of shots. It was just Daniel bending over Eli, spitting on him as he shouts awful things. The scene is filled with incredible tension, but it doesn't start that way. It starts with Daniel not paying Eli much attention, just eating his food as Eli gives his business proposal. Daniel's dark, disheveled face always stays at a low angle as he escalates things. While Daniel is covered in shadow, there is light on Eli's face.
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ReplyDeleteIn terms of the ending, I'm right with you, though i think Daniel is totally feigning indifference. He knows why Eli is there, and he's playing it cool. Throughout the film, with the exception of the scene where he slaps Eli around in the mud and oil, Daniel has remained cooly indifferent toward Eli, though he refuses to bow to him. Daniel wants Eli to know who's in control...even in the baptism scene where Eli believes he's finally gotten the best of Daniel. Rather than saying "Amen" after he's been "washed in the blood of the lamb," Daniel says, "That's my pipeline." When Eli comes to Daniel, hat in hand, he feigns humility, but thinks that he once again has the upperhand because of the Bandy claim. he thinks Daniel with beg him for the land; however, as always, Daniel's in control. His killing of Eli is almost merciful, as Daniel sees Eli as a pathetic, wounded creature. He puts him out of his misery. Love it.
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